Buying your first set of lawn bowls is a significant investment, and getting it right is crucial for your comfort and performance. As the club advice suggests, do not rush into a purchase until you have tested different models and consulted a coach.
Key Factors for New Players
When selecting your first set, focus on these three main areas:
- Size and Hand Fit: Comfort is the most important factor.
- The "Finger & Thumb Test": Place the bowl in your hand; your thumb and middle finger should just about touch when wrapped around the bowl. If they overlap, it's too small; if there’s a gap, it's too large.
- General Sizing: Men typically use sizes 3–4, while women often use sizes 1–2.
- Bias (The Curve): Every bowl is weighted to curve.
- Mid-Bias Bowls: These are highly recommended for beginners because they are versatile for both indoor and outdoor play.
- Popular beginner-friendly models include the Taylor Ace and Drakes Pride Professional.
- Weight: Heavyweight bowls are the modern standard because they are more stable in the wind and hold their line better. Only choose a medium weight if you find a heavyweight bowl causes physical strain.
Why Consult a Coach First?
- Individualized Analysis: A coach can evaluate your delivery style and physical hand size to recommend the best fit for your unique biomechanics.
- Try Before You Buy: Most clubs have a variety of "club bowls" you can borrow to test different brands (like Aero, Henselite, or Taylor) and grip styles before spending money.
- Avoid "Bad Habits": Using the wrong size can lead to wrist strain or poor form, which a coach can help prevent early on.
Pro Tips for Beginners
- Consider Second-Hand: A good quality used set can be excellent value while you are still developing your game.
- Grip Styles: Try different indentations (like "dimple" or "deep channel" grips) to see which gives you the most security, especially in wet weather.
- Surface Matters: If you play mostly indoors, you might prefer a narrower bias than if you play on slower outdoor grass.
